variety of insect repellent options
variety of insect repellent options

7 Best Insect Repellents

We tested the best insect repellents on the market for 2023 and this is how they performed.

We tested the best insect repellents on the market today according to price, weight, packability, and effectiveness. Read on to see how they performed, which is best for you, and receive some valuable buying advice.

Best Insect Repellents

The best insect repellents are:

  • Best Overall Insect Repellent: SAWYER 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
  • Best Lightweight and Packable Insect Repellent: BEN'S 100 Max Pump Spray
  • Best Natural Insect Repellent: REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Mosquito Repellent
  • Best Insect Repellent for Clothing & Gear Treatment: SAWYER Permethrin Fabric Treatment

Learn more about each of these repellent options, written by Justin Sprecher here.

Media Mentions

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zoe Gates
Editor at Backpacker

Media Mentions

In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange
Hiker

Media Mentions

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker